Sicilian Meatloaf

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Sicilian Meatloaf! It has quickly become a family favorite in our house. There’s something so comforting about a hearty meatloaf, but this version has a delicious twist that makes it feel really special. With a mix of juicy ground beef, flavorful herbs, and a hint of sweet raisins, this meatloaf is a blend of savory and slightly sweet that just warms my heart. It reminds me of the cozy dinners we used to have when I was growing up!

The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, and you might already have most of the ingredients in your pantry! Just pop it in the oven, and while it bakes, your kitchen will smell amazing. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or even a weekend family gathering. If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), it makes great sandwiches the next day. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed! And if you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with some homemade mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal!

Why You’ll Love This Sicilian Meatloaf

• Bold flavors from a unique blend of Italian herbs and spices.
• Layered with savory prosciutto or salami and melted mozzarella cheese.
• Moist and tender, thanks to the addition of eggs and marinara sauce.
• Simple to make with straightforward ingredients you likely have on hand.
• Perfectly suited to impress at family dinners or gatherings.
• Great as leftovers—tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable with your favorite meats, cheeses, or spices.

This meatloaf brings a traditional Sicilian twist to a classic comfort food, making it a standout dish for any occasion!

How to Make Sicilian Meatloaf

This Sicilian Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic favorite! It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and sure to impress your family or guests—perfect for a comforting dinner at home.

What You’ll Need:

• Ground beef – 2 pounds. I recommend using a blend with some fat for extra juiciness and flavor.
• Breadcrumbs – 1 cup. Homemade breadcrumbs are great if you have them; just pulse some stale bread in a food processor!
• Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated. Look for a good quality cheese for the best flavor—freshly grated is even better!
• Fresh parsley – 1/4 cup, chopped. This adds a lovely freshness to the meatloaf.
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced, because garlic makes everything better!
• Dried oregano – 1/2 teaspoon for that classic Italian touch.
• Large eggs – 2. They act as the binder to hold your meatloaf together.
• Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded. I prefer whole milk mozzarella for its melty goodness.
• Prosciutto or salami – 4 slices. I love prosciutto for its rich flavor, but salami works just as well!
• Marinara sauce – 1/2 cup (plus extra for serving). Use your favorite brand or homemade for the best taste.
• Salt and pepper – to taste, of course! Always essential to enhance flavors.
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon, for a finishing drizzle. A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely richness.

The Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for your meatloaf!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well—your hands are the best tools for this job!
3. On a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil, shape the meat mixture into a rectangle, about 1 inch thick. It doesn’t have to be perfect!
4. Layer the prosciutto or salami evenly over the meat, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Using the parchment paper or foil, carefully roll the meatloaf away from you. Roll tightly to keep all those yummy ingredients inside!
6. Transfer the rolled meatloaf to a baking dish, pinching the ends to seal it up nicely.
7. Brush the top of the meatloaf with marinara sauce and drizzle with olive oil—this will give it a beautiful glaze.
8. Bake in your preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temp reaches 160°F (70°C). Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Once it’s done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing—this helps keep it juicy.
10. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side. Enjoy this delicious Sicilian Meatloaf!

Bon appétit! You’re sure to love this tasty dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be leaner, so you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.

What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed crackers or oats can work as substitutes! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Adjust the amount as needed to achieve the right consistency for the meat mixture.

How Should I Store Leftover Meatloaf?

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I Make This Meatloaf Without Cheese?

Yes, you can make this meatloaf without cheese if you want a dairy-free version. You might want to add a little more moisture, like an extra egg or a splash of broth, to keep it from being too dry. Don’t worry; it will still be packed with flavor!